The beginning.

For a long time now I've wanted to start a blog and I wanted it to have some sort of theme or purpose. I've always wanted to change something about the way society views disability. Even the word "disability" holds such power and stigma. I know I myself avoided the term or any association with the disabled word for most of my childhood and adolescence and I haven't decided if it helped or hindered me. I have felt for many years that my avoidance may have simply been due to the fact that I didn't really fit in with either the disabled or non-disabled world. I'm not in a wheelchair, I don't require any adaptive technology, I have all five senses and a (relatively) high functioning brain, I can walk, drive, read, drink, dance (rather poorly)... Really what makes me disabled is the outer world. Most of my adaptations come with society and it's perception of me and other disabled people. I learned about this in my disability studies course... otherwise known as "The Social Construction of Disability". Google that shit now, people.

From what I remember about the few articles I read, Disability is defined not as an individual's lack of ability, but society's failure to adequately provide for all people to function in "normal society" regardless of ability. I know that while I can do most things on my own, it takes me a bit longer a lot of the time, and that doesn't translate when society is so fast paced. Society attempts to make adaptations and, I'm not at all adversed or upset or think they haven't done enough. However, their attempts are merely to "catch us up to speed" and never really help slow things down or accept things as they are.

Unfortunately, a community that is 100% adaptable to all people regardless of ability seems highly unlikely. My goals for my life (and this blog) are more bottom up. Based on my experience with having a cosmetic, highly obvious disability for as long as i can remember I have one request of all of you:

Never. Ever. Ever. Be afraid or embarrassed to ask questions.

We know what we look like. We know what you are thinking. We know you are wondering, what is that girls PROBLEM?? Maybe not all people with disabilities feel this way, and maybe some non-disabled people really aren't that curious. But for those of you that are, it's coo. I would be too. And if I see a person with a disability unlike my own, I have the same reaction as you do. Polite inquiry is always okay with me, and preferred.

Often I bring it up myself, to soften the blow, and usually that allows for a great, awesome discussion. And I really appreciate people's sensitivity. The last thing any person with a disability would want is to be seen solely as a disabled person, and I think that is why people hesitate. However, when you feel comfortable and you have an twinge of curiosity, I say go for it! The very worst thing that could happen is that the person would tell you they aren't comfortable with those questions. But I'm betting you that 99% of the time, a person would appreciate the attention that polite curiosity provides, along with a break from constant staring, overly-obvious avoidance and, way-too-nice-to-be-genuine behavior from strangers.

Questions are good. Srsly. I mean, who doesn't like talking about themselves?

Any Questions can be posted in my comments or to my email. I'm ready to answer anything (within reason... my parents might be reading this!) I'd also like to hear from people with disabilities. Funny stories about interacting with "normal" people, in particular. I'll post a few of these soon. Feel free to remain anonymous!